Store and digital growth drives Screwfix sucess

Screwfix has reported sales growth of almost 22% over the last 13 weeks and an uplift of nearly 12% based on like-for-like sales from this time last year*.

The growth is partly due to Screwfix’s store extension programme as the retailer is on track to open 60 new stores in addition to the existing 303 stores already open in the UK.

What’s more, Screwfix is also set to open four stores in Germany next year following the success of its European shipping service, launched earlier this year.

Andrew Livingston, chief executive of Screwfix, said: “Our unique retail model is driving continued success. While many retailers are moving their operations online, we are continuing to invest in our stores alongside our digital offering to ensure our customers can get the products they need, when they need them. We are also planning to expand our network of stores further to over 400, so tradesmen will never be too far from a Screwfix store whether working on-site, or travelling between jobs.

“We value our store presence just as highly as our website and mobile offering and it is this focus on both areas which is making us the supplier of choice for tradesmen and serious DIYers both at home and internationally.”

Screwfix’s investment at store level is impressive both in its reach (91% of the population is within a 30 minute drive from a Screwfix store) and the range of products stocked (11,000 in each store).

Mr Livingston added: “From screws and nails to power tools and paint, Screwfix stocks the everyday products right up to cutting edge machinery, keeping customers of all trades, levels and pursuits equipped for the job in hand. We are committed to continually investing in high quality products and supplying them at low trade prices.”

A particular highlight has been Screwfix’s Click & Collect service which allows tradesmen to select and purchase items online or through the mobile website before picking them up from a store just five minutes later.

In fact, 70% of orders made on the mobile site are via Click & Collect, and this service accounts for just over half of the orders placed on Screwfix.com. The mobile site itself receives around 200,000 unique visitors each week, and this number has increased by 78% year-on-year.

Another key to Screwfix’s success and identity is its catalogue. While still widely used in its printed form, Screwfix’s range of products can also be viewed and purchased through the company’s website and mobile site.

Mr Livingston concluded: “Our customers are viewing and purchasing products on the move, so it’s important we constantly evolve our services to reflect this. Increasing accessibility is the foundation of all we do and we look forward to another exciting and successful year ahead.”

* Figures from the Screwfix Q3 pre-close update for the last 13 weeks to 2 November 2013.